Astronomy can be a very fascinating subject. If you have an interest in it, welcome to the world of wonders. But, to get into it, you need a telescope first.
Talking about telescopes, there’s a big debate between 6” and 8”.
So, which one is better when it comes to 6 inch vs 8 inch telescope?
6-inch and 8-inch telescopes, both are quite good. However, the 6-inch telescope is user-friendly and easy to carry. It is easier to operate and cheaper. On the other hand, an 8-inch telescope is heavier, bulkier, and more costly. But it gives a brighter and high-resolution image.
Nevertheless, I’ve only provided a brief answer. And I understand it is not enough for you to understand which one is better.
So, to know more, stick with me through the rest of it-
6 Inch Vs 8 Inch Telescope- Quick Comparison
We have compared the 6 inch and 8-inch telescopes for you. These work great with beginners and are easy to use.
You must be wondering, what can be the differences between them other than their length. Well, it works almost the same but it has a few differences.
Even all binoculars aren’t the same. That is why I compared astronomy and birdwatching binoculars as well.
So, let us begin!
| Factors | 6 Inch Telescope | 8 Inch Telescope |
| Cost | Cheaper | Pricey |
| Surface Area | Smaller | Larger |
| Portability | Easier to carry | Slightly difficult to carry |
| Usage | Good for the moon, bright clusters, and planetary. | The Same but with better visuals. |
| Magnification | Moderate, with a clear picture | Moderate, with higher resolution and brighter image. |
| Outlook & Weight | Smaller and lighter | Heavier and bulkier in size |
| Availability | Buy Now | Buy Now |
So, these are the differentiating factors between 6 inch vs 8-inch telescopes. If you are a beginner, we have elaborated on the differentiating factors for you.
Other than that you can also get a clear idea by looking at the following graph-
Now take a sip of your coffee and move on to the next segment!
6 Inch Vs 8 Inch Telescope – a Detailed Comparison
Here, we came up with a detailed comparison for your better understanding. So that you can choose your telescope easily.
Let us get started-
Cost
It is one of the main reasons beginners tend to go for 6-inch telescopes. 6-inch Dobsonian telescopes are cheaper than 8-inch Dobsonian telescopes.
You will find a 6-inch telescope for between $890-$900. And, an 8-inch telescope for between $940-$960.
It shows that the 8-inch Dobsonian telescope price is tremendous.
So, if you’re preferring a 6-inch telescope then you’ll be able to get more telescope accessories. How? Of course with the money you saved here!
Here are some must-have telescope accessories that you can easily get at a reasonable price-
You see, the 6-inch telescope works almost the same as the 8-inch at a cheaper cost. This is why more people prefer 6-inch telescopes.
Winner: 6-inch
Surface Area
We know, the greater the surface area, the better the view. It means a bigger surface area provides a much better image of the planets.
Here, 8-inch Dobsonian telescopes have a bigger surface area.
On the other hand, 6-inch telescopes have a smaller surface area. Therefore, its lesser surface area gives a moderate visual of the planets.
Winner: 8-inch
Portability
Well, portability is one of the main differentiating factors. As the 6-inch telescope is lighter and smaller, it is easier to carry.
Nevertheless, bigger or smaller telescopes, a carrying case is always useful to carry them. I have these following telescope bags. That’s why I carry my telescope easily on mountains, even to a jungle. Take a look at the list below-
- Rhino BagMate H8 Telescope Case– comes with damage prevention and shock absorption
- Multipurpose Telescope Bag– shock-absorbent telescope bag
On the other hand, the 8-inch telescope is heavier and bigger. Which is why it is difficult to carry.
Winner: 6-inch
Resolution & Image Quality
Well, both are good for the moon, planetary, and bright nebulae. But 8-inch telescopes can provide a higher resolution.
However, the advantage depends on the quality of your sky.
However, a 6-inch telescope works well with poor skies. And, it is capable of giving better views from a dark zone.
I, personally, use a 1.25″ moon filter with my 6-inch telescope. It helps to improve the contrast of the moon and reduces glare at the same time.
If you don’t know how to use a moon filter watch the following video-
Now back to the our main topic. Are you preffering one more between the two telescopes here? If not then I guess it’s a tie for the both end.
Winner: Tie
Magnification
The fact about it is, both can work well in the same magnification. But 8-inch Dobsonian telescope images offer a brighter and higher resolution at the same magnification.
And 6-inch telescope images provide somewhat fair resolution and brightness. Also, an 8-inch telescope can increase its magnification for viewing planets.
But to get a vibration-free and moderate image you should use a mount in both cases. Because vibration makes even decent magnification ineffective.
I’ve got myself a telescope mount after researching a lot. So, I guess I can suggest a 1 or 2 better quality mounts here-
With or without mount, which telescope would you choose here?
Winner: 8-inch
Outlook & Weight
Well, both have almost the same outlook. Except, a 6-inch telescope is smaller and lighter.
On the other hand, an 8-inch telescope is bigger and bulkier as said above.
Winner: 8-inch
Availability
Lastly, both are available. You can find both in online and physical shops.
But a 6-inch telescope is more popular among beginners. It can be used by both beginners and professionals.
Winner: Tie
So, Which One is for You?
So, the similarities and dissimilarities are given above. Both telescopes are mostly similar in availability and their work. Again, both have dissimilarities in cost, surface area, usage, and portability.
If you have to work in an apartment in the city, try a 6-inch telescope. It will be easier to carry and work with.
Also, if you can spend more, manage the weight, go for the 8-inch telescope. It will give you better visuals. Trust me, it will be worth the extra bucks.
Here is the whole discussion in a nutshell-
However, as a beginner, you can go for either one of them.
Also, you do not have to stay within stargazing only. You can also observe the sun with a handmade sun spotter solar telescope.
FAQs
How big a telescope do you need to see Saturn rings?
The smallest telescope [magnified by 25 times] 25x is capable of showing the rings. Also, a good 3-inch scope at 50x [magnified by 50 times] can show the rings. But as a separate structure detached from the ball of the planet.
Can you see Pluto with a telescope?
Yes, you can see Pluto with a telescope. But, in that case, you will need a large aperture telescope. It is only 68% the size of the earth’s moon. And, this fact makes it harder and trickier to observe it.
Why can’t I see planets through my telescope?
You can’t see planets through telescopes because they are so small. Also, they are far away and the distance cannot be crossed with the highest magnification. You need to replace your eyepiece with a high-power eyepiece to see the planets.
Wrapping Up
Well, we have come to an end of the discussion. We hope to have helped decide on a 6 inch vs 8 inch telescope.
Both telescopes will help you experience stargazing to the fullest. Now go get one and discover a whole new world.
Till we meet again!
